As a special recognition for their outstanding effort, dedication, and achievements, the winners of the 2025 Youth Activism Award (YAA2025) were treated to a tailor-made excursion across Bosnia and Herzegovina. The trip was not only a reward but also an opportunity to explore, learn, and connect with each other while visiting some of the country’s most beautiful and significant sites.
The winners from Velika Kladuša, Gradiška, and Sarajevo met in the capital, where their unforgettable journey began. The first stop was Travnik, the birthplace of Nobel laureate Ivo Andrić, where they visited his childhood home and explored the rich cultural heritage of this central Bosnian town. The road then led them to Jajce, where they took in the view of the magnificent waterfall and visited the Franciscan Museum.
“The trip was amazing! I discovered new places, enjoyed Bosnia and Herzegovina’s beauty, and made new friends. This trip inspired me to explore more places across the country next year, because Bosnia and Herzegovina has stunning nature and something to offer to everyone,” said Amina Imamović from Sarajevo, winner in the “Beacon of Justice” category.
Their next destination was Banja Luka, where the girls experienced a unique ride in a traditional dajak boat on the Vrbas River, a definite highlight of the trip. The adventure continued in Cazin with a tour of the impressive Old Town of Ostrožac, followed by Bihać, where they explored the natural beauty of Una National Park.
In the second part of the trip, the group travelled south. In Livno, they visited the world-famous site where more than 1000 wild horses roam, an experience that left a strong impression on everyone. The journey continued through historic Počitelj, the source of the Buna River, and the scenic Buna Channels – a place where nature and history meet in a striking way.
“This trip was one of the best experiences of my life. The best part was the Livno safari and seeing the wild horses. I’m grateful to the Institute for Youth Development KULT for recognizing young activists like us,” said Nudžejma Karajić from Velika Kladuša, winner of the “Changemaker” category.
The final major stop was Mostar, where they admired the Old Bridge, walked through the old town, and visited Fortica, which offers panoramic views of the entire city. On the way back to Sarajevo, the group stopped in Jablanica to tour the “Battle for the Wounded” Museum, adding another layer to their understanding of history.
Throughout the trip, the winners not only enjoyed the natural beauty of Bosnia and Herzegovina but also strengthened their bonds, exchanged experiences, and found new motivation for the work they do.
“These four days left a lasting impression on me, thanks to this amazing group, the atmosphere, and the places we visited. I have to say that we learned a lot on this trip and grew closer as a group,” said Jelena Savić from Gradiška, winner in the “Cyber Advocate” category. She encouraged young activists across Bosnia and Herzegovina to apply for future award calls, describing her experience as truly unique and unforgettable.
You can watch the video stories from the trip on our Instagram.
